Commander of 154th Mechanized Brigade found dead; circumstances under investigation

The body of Colonel Volodymyr Kononnikov, commander of the 154th Separate Mechanized Brigade, was found with no signs of life on Sunday, June 28. The investigation into the circumstances of the officer’s death is ongoing.

The “South” Operational Command reported this on Facebook, according to Ukrinform.

It is noted that law enforcement agencies are conducting initial investigative actions. An internal investigation has also been launched.

Preliminary findings indicate no signs of violence. Final conclusions will be drawn based on the results of the investigation.

“The command of Operational Command ‘South’ is fully cooperating with law enforcement agencies. We ask media representatives and the public to refrain from spreading unverified information and to respect the privacy of the deceased’s family,” the statement reads.

The “South” Operational Command emphasizes that Colonel Kononnikov was “an officer devoted to Ukraine and the military cause, a responsible commander who cared for his personnel and the needs of his military unit.”

As reported by Ukrinform, a man was detained in the Chernivtsi region after stabbing two soldiers from the TCC and SP (Territorial Center for Recruitment and Social Support) in the neck.